Why F1's engine debate is far from over

The future of F1's engine regulations is set to be debated by the Formula 1 Commission at Heathrow on Wednesday, and says Dieter Rencken, the issue has the potential to be hotter than any blown diffuser currently on the grid.

When making enquiries about last week's Technical Working Group meeting – during the course of which agreement was reached to emasculate exhaust-blown diffusers from the British Grand Prix onwards, and ban the devices outright from next season – this column was advised by various sources to 'forget the TWG meeting; the real fireworks come next Wednesday...' And, so it seems.

The Formula 1 Commission, made of all F1's 'heavies' is scheduled to meet at a Heathrow hotel on that date to debate various issues, including the question of the 2013 engine regulations. These were originally confirmed for introduction in that season, but the date is now open to 'redefinition' – as the release issued in the wake of the FIA's last World Motorsport Council meeting so quaintly put it.